Pune RTO Cracks Down on Non-Marathi-Speaking Autorickshaw Drivers, 95 Checked and Notices Served to 10 Drivers
Pune, 20th August 2026: The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) on Thursday checked around 95 autorickshaws as part of a special drive against drivers who do not have working knowledge of Marathi, while notices were served to 10 drivers during the first day of the campaign.
The inspection follows amendments made by the Maharashtra transport department to the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, making knowledge of Marathi mandatory for permit holders and drivers of vehicles fitted with electronic meters.
Under the amended rules, drivers found lacking the required Marathi knowledge will initially be given one month to acquire it. If they fail to do so, the licensing authority can issue a show-cause notice and suspend the driver’s badge/authorisation for up to three months. Continued non-compliance can lead to cancellation of the authorisation.
The RTO said Marathi language tests will be conducted by motor vehicle inspectors, and permit holders will be required to pass the test. Marathi proficiency will also be mandatory at the time of renewal of an autorickshaw permit.
The amended rules were notified in the Maharashtra government gazette on August 12, 2026. The Pune RTO has urged all concerned permit holders and drivers to take note of the new provisions.
